COVID-19 has certainly shown the many parts of our lives that are, and are not, important. Many employers are opting to allow their employees to live and work remotely, and that has opened up a whole other factor when considering where to live. When proximity to workplace isn’t a factor, many are choosing our area for its lower cost of living and great communities. Tennessee and Georgia are certainly on many homebuyers’ minds.
But buying a home in a COVID world can make a complicated process even more so.
Add being an out-of-state buyer, and the entire process is even more challenging. Along with the stress, moving to an unfamiliar area or new state adds whole new levels of necessary preparation and expenses. However, with just a bit of planning and a lot of organization, and the help and expertise of a realtor, you can make the process substantially easier on yourself.
Here are a few tips to help streamline your long-distance home purchase and move:
- Find a Realtor. Whether you are moving across the street or across the country, hiring a realtor is the best move you can make. When you are looking for homes in a new state, having someone familiar with the area, neighborhoods and local market conditions is an invaluable asset. Realtors have unparalleled knowledge of their communities and can help you navigate the complex, sometimes overwhelming process of homebuying.
- Establish Timelines. Knowing the day you are moving is just one of many dates you will need to figure out. When do you need to sell your current home? When can you take a trip to the new state to view potential homes? Considering those questions and having a breakdown of what needs to be done and by when will help you prioritize tasks and keep you from scrambling at the last minute.
- Tour Potential Homes Online. Traveling back and forth between states to look at homes is time-consuming and cost preventative for most, but that shouldn’t prevent you from beginning your home search online. Digital real estate listings often include photos and videos guiding you through the home, the same way a Realtor would if you were there physically. Though you might eventually have to make a trip out to your new state to purchase your home, touring a few homes online can help you narrow down your choices and save you time and money. Amplified by precautions taking in light of the pandemic, but an option that is growing in popularity is a live, virtual tour. What does that mean? The buyer’s Realtor makes the showing appointment and then does a walk-through with the buyer on the other end of video-based call. With this format, buyers don’t have to travel from out-of-state and can get real-time answers to their questions as they preview the home.
- Moving. Long distance moves can be an expensive process, so make sure you ask for estimates from a few moving companies before committing. If you are really hoping to save money, a do-it-yourself move might be your best option. Make sure to consider the cost per mile, insurance, gas and taxes when price shopping for a moving truck. And if you have any pets, make sure to research hotels that allow animals or arrange with your airline to have your furry friend travel in the cabin with you.
Homeownership is not only an investment in your financial future, it is an investment in your life in your new home state. As a homeowner, you are more likely to be engaged in local issues and more involved with your community, so be sure to work closely with your realtor to find a house that is going to make this new place really feel like home.
Realtors help serve our clients; across the street, county or country. That’s Who We R.